I’ve got a sneaky feeling this will be the surprise NUFC side Benitez starts at Burnley tonight..

After a few weeks away and yet another dreaded international break, we’re finally back in action tonight away to Burnley – and Benitez has a big decision to make with Paul Dummett ruled out.

Rafa’s team selections are often hard to second guess (so I could well get this one totally wrong) , but I’ve got a feeling he may go with wing-backs and three centre-halves for this one.

Here’s the side/system Benitez may just go for a Turf Moor tonight – keeping in mind that Clark would no doubt come in for Lascelles if the skipper isn’t fit to play:

Rafa often opts for four at the back and a 4-2-3-1/4-4-1-1 system – so it would be a surprise if he did switch it up – but it could make a lot of sense in Dummett’s absence.

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This formation is something Rafa has tried before and it seems suitable given A) our lack of alternatives to fill in for Dummett at left-back and B) the fact we have plenty capable centre-backs and two players I believe would be ideal wing-backs in Kenedy and Yedlin.

Kenedy always played as a left wing-back during his time at Chelsea and this position could also suit Yedlin well, also allowing for the fact we have several quality centre-backs. If Lascelles wasn’t fit I’d be less inclined to do this, but Benitez has shown already this season that he isn’t afraid to play Clark.

Rafa is probably more likely to make minimal changes and just put Clark in for Dummett at left-back, however he struggled badly last time he played hear in our early season cup defeat at Forest, so I really wouldn’t fancy him up against Aaron Lennon!

What do you reckon folks – could you see Rafa doing this tonight?

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